Can the sun actually clear your breakouts?

Between barbecues and pool parties, you might want to cover up that enormous zit. But don’t fret! The sun might actually help you dry up those breakouts.

Now, that doesn’t mean we’re you should sunbathe away your acne in this heat, but a little Vitamin D definitely won’t hurt.

Dermatologist Jennifer Chwalek told Teen Vogue, “Sunlight is composed of different wavelengths of light and some wavelengths can have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin and can suppress acne-causing bacteria.”

If you’re wondering why a dip in the ocean clears up your skin, remember chlorine and salt water tend to be drying, so the combination of sunlight and water make your pores appear cleaner.

However, more research has yet to back this up. “The risk of burning and developing sun damage — which can lead to skin cancer — outweighs any benefit,” points out Chwalek.

According to HealthAim, “Mild exposure can lead to improvement in acne since light therapies are sometimes cure to the condition.”

If you’re using benzoyl peroxide, retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid, be extra cautious in the sun, since your skin will already be sensitive from product usage.

While twenty minutes in the sun might not take the place of light therapy treatments in a dermatologist’s office, we’re still wary about this acne myth.

No matter what, sporting sunscreen is a must, so here are a few of our favorite sunscreens:Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15 PA++ ($39.50): This one acts as a primer and surprisingly has an oil ingredient. Oil absorbs oil apparently!